You no longer need an inner line permit to explore Ladakh

If you’re planning your trip to Ladakh, you now have one less thing to worry about. If you’re an Indian citizen, you no longer need to obtain the inner line permit to access some of the region’s most amazing parts. You no longer need to Google frantically for procedure, nor do you need to queue up outside the Leh District Collector’s office for permission to head out on a trek.

Earlier: Till two weeks ago, tourists to the region were required to secure the inner line permit to explore Ladakh beyond Leh. You had to visit the District Collector’s office (on a working day), with photographs, and documents to visit places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, etc.

Now: On 24 April 2014, the state government changed the procedure. Now, you need not visit any government office or secure any permit. Carry one of the following documents, and you’re good to go:

Indian passport

Driving licence

PAN card

Aadhar card

Election identity card

Service identity card (with photograph) issued by Central/state government or a PSU

Smart card issued Registrar General of India (under National Population Register)